Abatacept: A Novel Agent for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Abstract

Objective: To evaluate the role of abatacept in the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) with respect to its pharmacology, pharmacokinetics, clinical efficacy, and adverse effect profile.Data Sources: A MEDLINE search (1966( -November 2006 was conducted for primary and secondary literature. Search terms included BL125118, CTLA4-Ig, abatacept, and rheumatoid arthritis. Study Selection and Data Extraction:All articles retrieved from the data sources were evaluated. The most relevant studies were selected and included in this review.Data Synthesis: Abatacept is the first in a new class of RA agents with a unique mechanism of action. It is a selective costimulation modulator that inhibits T cell activation and other inflammatory mediators. This agent has been studied as an adjunct in patients who are receiving disease-modifying antirheumatic drug therapy and in those who have failed tumor necrosis factor-alfa antagonist therapy. Clinical trials were evaluated for information on abatacept's indication, dosing, safety, and efficacy profile. Conclusions:Abatacept has been shown to reduce signs and symptoms of RA and improve the condition of patients with moderately to severely active RA.